An old box of records leads to 189 Years of family history - Artifact Return Search

Last year, I acquired a Victrola along with a substantial collection of records. Nestled at the bottom of the box, I found a framed document. Initially, I dismissed it as likely insignificant and set it aside. However, upon finally giving it a closer examination, I realized it was an original handwritten piece dated 1835, penned by a gentleman named Andrew Alexander. In the document, he beseeched the Monroe County Clerk for a marriage license for his daughter.

Intrigued, I began researching to trace the family lineage, hoping to locate a direct descendant for its rightful return. Through my research, I unearthed a rich history dating back to the Salem, Massachusetts colony before 1728. Originating from Ireland, the family eventually settled as farmers in Monroe County, West Virginia. A wealth of records, ranging from Wills to Census data and Marriage to Birth/Death records, shed light on their journey.

I hold firm to the belief that history should be conveyed accurately, devoid of embellishment. Delving deeper, I discovered that Alexander's family were landowners in West Virginia, with ties to a plantation and the institution of slavery. Both his father's and mother's wills make explicit mention of slaves, outlining specific provisions for their fate upon the owners' demise. Though challenging to confront, these documents are essential in comprehending the family's narrative, especially against the backdrop of the Civil War.

Remarkably, Alexander's lineage boasts a legacy of military service. His father, uncle, and grandfather all fought in the Revolutionary War, while several grandchildren answered the call of duty during the Civil War, serving in the Confederate ranks. Tragically, one grandson fell in action, while another was wounded and honorably discharged.

It's no doubt the Alexander family is a big part of American History.

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